Adversity Quote by Jean Hanff Korelitz
“As a writer, I have this compulsion to take characters who appear formidable and bombard them with adversity until they crumble. What's interesting is watching them rise again, and seeing how they've changed and grown, if indeed they have.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz, 2021
Writers often test strong characters with relentless challenges to reveal growth or failure.
In simple terms: Testing strong characters shows change.
Key Takeaway
Use adversity to develop character arcs.
Themes
character development
conflict
growth
resilience
storytelling
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
literary
creative
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- screenwriting
- creative workshops
Key Concepts
Narrative tension
character arc
psychological transformation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance hardship with believability?
- When does struggle stop being compelling?
A Different Perspective
Over‑testing can make characters feel unrealistic or melodramatic.
